Mercedes CLA45 AMG Slips Out Early

Just a week ahead of its anticipated debut at the New York Auto Show, AMG's new compact performance sedan has leaked online.

The new S-Class may be the biggest news that Mercedes-Benz has planned for the upcoming New York Auto Show, but enthusiasts (or really anyone with less than $100k to spend on a German luxury sedan) will be more impressed by the new CLA45 AMG. Mercedes may not be ready to unveil the whole thing just yet, but that hasn’t stopped this set of images from leaking out, giving us the full unadulterated look at the compact four-door performance coupe.

Based on the new A-Class but with the 2.0-liter turbo four from the European-spec A45 AMG hatchback, the new CLA45 will drive 360 horsepower through its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to all four wheels. We’re told to expect a 4.6-second 0-60 time and a sub-$50k starting price. Along with the engine upgrades, AMG has also apparently applied its usual aerodynamic enhancements, bigger wheels and brakes and a sportier interior with Alcantara and carbon-fiber trim. Watch this space for more as the New York Auto Show opens at the Javitz Center next week.